Master the Iconic Hit: Staind - 'It's Been Awhile' Guitar Lesson
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Background of the Song
- Learning the Acoustic Part
- Adapting the Song for the Band
- The Chorus and its Chords
- Picking and Strumming Patterns
- Variations in the Recording
- Electric Guitar Introduction
- Tuning for the Song
- Verse Riff and Chords
- The Chorus and its Chords
- Bridge Section
- Textures and Colorful Parts
- Octave Parts
- The Song's Character
- Conclusion
🎵 Introduction
Hey! It's Mike here from JamPlay.com. Today, we're going to learn how to play the song "It's Been a While" by [band name]. This iconic song holds the honor of being the most played song of the last decade. Let's dive into the details and master this hit!
🎵 The Background of the Song
"It's Been a While" was initially an acoustic song brought to the band by Aaron. The band decided to adapt it into a full-band arrangement, similar to how they approached their hit song "Outside." In this article, we'll first learn the acoustic part played by Aaron and then explore how the rest of the band contributed to the song.
🎵 Learning the Acoustic Part
The acoustic part of "It's Been a While" sets the foundation for the verses. The chords used are A, C, G, and D. The picking pattern remains mostly consistent throughout these chords, allowing for a smooth transition. The chorus shares the same chords, but the guitar is typically tuned down a half step. Let's take a closer look at the acoustic part:
- Verse Chords: A, C, G, D
- Chorus Chords: A minor, C, G, D
- Guitar Tuning: E♭, A♭, D♭, G♭, B♭, E♭
🎵 Adapting the Song for the Band
As the song progresses, it transitions into the electric guitar section. The tuning for this section is drop D, down a half step, with an added G♯ or A♭. The intro riff utilizes power chords and sliding techniques. Here's how to play the intro:
- Power Chords: 14th fret on the fifth string, open sixth string, open fourth string, 12th fret on the third string
- Sliding Technique: From 14th fret to 12th fret on the third string
🎵 The Chorus and its Chords
The chorus of "It's Been a While" starts with a power chord on the 12th fret, which then slides down to the third fret. There's a barre chord shape on the fifth fret, and the open D string is muting during the strumming. Additionally, an octave higher power chord is played on the 12th fret. The last repetition ends on the open D string before transitioning back into the verse or bridge.
🎵 Picking and Strumming Patterns
To capture the essence of the song, there are various picking and strumming patterns used. These patterns may vary in different recordings, but we'll focus on a consistent choice that complements the other guitar parts. Experiment with different patterns to find your preferred style.
🎵 Variations in the Recording
"It's Been a While" has been recorded in different settings, including live performances and studio recordings. It's important to note that the guitar parts may vary slightly between these versions. Feel free to explore these variations to better understand the song's diversity.
🎵 Electric Guitar Introduction
Now, let's dive into the electric guitar section. This part is crucial for setting the tone of the song. The riff played in the intro continues throughout the verses, re-intros, and the outro. Pay attention to the specific tuning required for this section.
🎵 Tuning for the Song
The tuning used for "It's Been a While" is similar to a drop D tuning, but down a half step with the addition of a G♯ or A♭. This tuning emphasizes the heavy and dark tones present in the song.
🎵 Verse Riff and Chords
The verse riff is a distinct and recognizable element of the song. It starts at the fifth fret on the fifth and fourth strings. The picking pattern creates a unique texture, giving the song its emotional depth. Let's break down the verse riff:
- Hit the lower two strings (fifth and fourth) together.
- Add the seventh fret on the third string.
- Create a stop and little mute by playing the open D string and adding the lower D on the sixth string at the fifth fret.
- Transition to an A power chord by playing the open sixth string and barre the seventh fret on the fifth and fourth strings.
🎵 The Chorus and its Chords
The chorus of "It's Been a While" utilizes power chords to maintain its intensity. Start with a power chord shape on the twelfth fret and slide it down to the third fret. Barre the fifth fret on the fifth and fourth strings, muting the open D string. To add depth, play an octave higher on the 12th fret. The final repetition ends on the open D string before returning to the verse or bridge.
🎵 Bridge Section
The bridge section introduces variation to the song structure. It begins on the fifth fret with power chords on the fifth and fourth strings. The lower D string is played open. Move to the seventh fret on the fifth and fourth strings, maintaining the A power chord shape. This section adds a unique dynamic to the song.
🎵 Textures and Colorful Parts
"It's Been a While" incorporates textures and colorful parts that enhance its overall sound. These additional layers create depth and add flavor to the song. Two notable parts include a tagline within the verses and an octave part under the chorus chords.
🎵 Octave Parts
Octave parts contribute to the overall richness of "It's Been a While." These parts involve playing two notes simultaneously, spaced by an octave interval. The index finger is placed on the seventh fret of the fourth string, and the pinky finger is on the ninth fret of the third string. They then slide up and down the neck, creating a melodic effect.
🎵 The Song's Character
"It's Been a While" holds a special place in the hearts of the band members. It was one of those songs that resonated with them from the very beginning. The combination of Aaron's acoustic guitar part and the band's arrangement turned out to be a remarkable success. Sometimes, a song just has that special something that resonates with both the artists and the audience.
🎵 Conclusion
Congratulations! You've learned how to play "It's Been a While" by [band name]. This song holds a significant place in the music industry and remains a favorite among fans. Remember to experiment with different variations and techniques to make it your own. Keep practicing and enjoy the journey of mastering this iconic hit!
Highlights
- "It's Been a While" is the most played song of the last decade, making it a highly successful track.
- The song was originally an acoustic composition brought to the band by Aaron.
- The acoustic part consists of chords A, C, G, and D, with a consistent picking pattern.
- The song was adapted to a full-band arrangement, similar to the band's hit song "Outside".
- The chorus uses A minor, C, G, and D chords, with the guitar typically tuned down a half step.
- Different variations of picking and strumming patterns can be explored.
- The electric guitar section requires tuning down a half step with a G♯ or A♭ added.
- The intro riff sets the tone for the song and is played throughout the verses, re-intros, and outro.
- The verse riff starts on the fifth fret, incorporating unique picking and muting techniques.
- The bridge section introduces variations with power chords and specific finger placements.
- Textures and colorful parts add depth and enhance the overall sound of the song.
- Octave parts create melodic effects and contribute to the richness of the song.
- "It's Been a While" carries a significance and nostalgic value for the band members.
- The song offers an opportunity for musicians to experiment and make it their own.
- Practice and enjoy the journey of mastering this iconic hit!
FAQs
Q: What tuning is used for "It's Been a While"?
A: The song is typically played in E♭, A♭, D♭, G♭, B♭, E♭ tuning, but the guitar is tuned down a half step.
Q: Can I play the song without using the alternate tuning?
A: While the alternate tuning is preferred for an accurate rendition, you can try playing it in standard tuning, but the overall sound may differ.
Q: Are there different variations of this song?
A: Yes, "It's Been a While" has been recorded in various settings, including live performances and studio recordings, resulting in slight variations in guitar parts.
Q: Can I add my own improvisations to this song?
A: Absolutely! "It's Been a While" offers ample room for creativity, allowing you to incorporate your own improvisations and make the song your own.
Q: What skills should I focus on to master this song?
A: Developing your chord transitions, picking techniques, and power chord precision will greatly assist in mastering this song.
Q: Can I play this song on an acoustic guitar?
A: Yes, the acoustic guitar part forms the foundation of the song. However, bear in mind that the recorded version utilizes both acoustic and electric guitars.
